Project

The project level is where programming documents and implementation arrangements are transformed into actual projects. ESF funding requires that all projects integrate the dual gender equality approach in all levels and phases of their lifecycle.

At project level gender equality begins with a gender analysis of the issue being addressed. This analysis forms the bedrock for the entire process, ensuring that gender equality is a reality in all projects, whatever their focus.

On the basis of the real facts and figures on the situation of both men and women – in their diversity – and of a reflection on the causes of any observed inequalities , targeted and appropriate gender equality objectives must be set, and relevant actions should be planned for the implementation phase. Regular checks that these objectives are being met must be carried out through gender-sensitive monitoring and evaluation. These different steps are explained in more detail by clicking on the links in the menu on the left of the page.

Further reading

Several ESF Managing Authorities or ESF/gender equality support structures have developed manuals and guidelines to assist the projects on how to apply gender mainstreaming in the various phases of the projects. See for example:The good practice guideboook on gender mainstreaming from the Finnish Ministry of Labour and the Economy